What happens if you don't pay your council rent

Rent is due from the moment you receive keys to your new home, payable every Monday in advance. Not paying on time breaches your Tenancy Agreement and could lead to legal action, jeopardizing your housing.

We'll contact you if you fall two weeks behind with rent. You can discuss rent issues with our Rents Team, in person, by phone, or at a Council office. In some cases, rent arrears can be paid directly from certain benefits.

Sticking to a repayment agreement usually prevents legal action. However, failing to follow through may result in legal steps. For Introductory Tenancies, any arrears can lead to immediate legal action.

Legal action

We try to resolve arrears issues face-to-face before legal action. If unsuccessful, there are three stages:

Stage one - warning

A Notice Seeking Possession or Notice of Possession Proceedings is issued for failure to pay or reach an agreement. This warns of potential court action.

Stage two - court hearing

If debts remain or no repayment plan is agreed upon, we'll seek a court hearing. Attend your hearing to explain your situation. Court agreements can postpone eviction as long as you adhere to the terms. Court costs and potential credit rating impact may occur.

Stage three - eviction

Failing to follow a Court Order can lead to eviction. We'll attempt further discussion before applying for a Bailiff's warrant. Court amendments (Variation Orders) may incur additional costs. Eviction for non-payment may classify you as intentionally homeless, affecting future housing opportunities.

Other options

If agreements fail, we may deduct payments from your benefits or claim part of your wages (Attachment of Earnings).